Latest Reds rumors fuel talk of major deadline move with Terry Francona connection

Cincinnati Reds fans have been down in the dumps after two straight losses to the Los Angeles Dodgers, but a trade for Cleveland Guardians outfielder Steve Kwan would do a lot to lift their spirits. According to New York Post columnist Jon Heyman, the Reds are involved in trade negotiations to acquire Kwan ahead of Thursday's deadline.

In recent days, the Guardians have gone from buyers to sellers. The team learned of an investigation surrounding their closer Emmanuel Clase that would keep him out of action through at least August 31. That, combined with the team's sub-.500 record have shifted Cleveland's focus with a little over 24 hours left until the trade deadline passes.

Kwan represents a serious upgrade for the Reds outfield. Fans saw on Tuesday night how important outfield defense truly is, and having a Gold Glover like Kwan on the roster would certainly help in that regard. Kwan is also the type of high-contact hitter that manager Terry Francona and hitting coordinator Chris Valaika absolutely love. In fact, Francona was Kwan's manager in Cleveland from 2022-2023. Valaika also coached Kwan during his time with the Guardians organization.

Latest Reds rumors link Terry Francona disciple Steve Kwan to Cincinnati at the MLB trade deadline

There are some down sides to trading for Kwan. While he has a high on-base percentage and rarely strikes out, Kwan is not really a power-hitter. His career-best 14 home runs came last season, and Kwan had nine round-trippers heading into play on Wednesday. Kwan is also a left-handed hitter, something the Reds have in abundance

But the lack of power and which side of the plate he hits from are unlikely to scare the Reds away from pursuing Kwan at the deadline. He represents a clear upgrade to the Reds roster and is under team control through 2027. If the Reds are looking for a player who's more than just a rental, Kwan could be the perfect addition to Cincinnati's roster.

The Los Angeles Angels appear to have taken Taylor Ward off the market on Wednesday after making a trade for two Washington Nationals relievers. With Ward likely staying put in LA, Kwan is easily the best outfield upgrade the Reds could acquire at this year's trade deadline.

Heyman mentioned a few other teams who were involved in the Kwan sweepstakes. Both the San Diego Padres and Los Angeles Dodgers are also in the mix. Reds fans are hoping that Nick Krall's offer is better than what A.J. Preller or Andrew Friedman can put forward, but history suggests that may not be the case. Perhaps Francona's influence will help get this deal across the finish line.

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